Thoughts of Death

Psychonaut 4's song 'Thoughts of Death' delves into the profound and often unsettling contemplation of one's final moments. The lyrics open with a haunting question that sets the tone for the entire piece: 'What was the last thought about?' This inquiry is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the artist's obsession with understanding the final mental state of those who have faced death in various violent and tragic ways. The repetition of this question underscores a deep existential curiosity and perhaps a fear of the unknown that accompanies the end of life.

The imagery in the song is stark and vivid, painting a picture of a solitary journey into the depths of the ocean, a metaphor for the descent into death. The protagonist describes their ship sinking, symbolizing the inevitable approach of death. Despite the grim scenario, there is a sense of calm and acceptance. The lines 'I'm not afraid, my mind is clear' and 'I see no light, I feel no fear' suggest a resignation to fate and a release from the fear of the unknown. The dark blue sea represents the vast, uncharted territory of death, and the act of placing coins on the eyes is a nod to the ancient Greek tradition of Charon's obol, a payment to the ferryman who transports souls to the afterlife.

The song's conclusion, with the protagonist lying down and waiting for death, reflects a final surrender. The absence of a farewell letter or words indicates a desire for a quiet, unnoticed departure. The phrase 'My role of derelict was played with pride' suggests a life lived on the fringes, perhaps in defiance of societal norms, and an acceptance of the solitary path chosen. The song's quiet ending mirrors the stillness of death, leaving the listener to ponder the same question that haunts the artist: 'What was the last thought about?'